pɔːr ɔɪl ɒn ˈtrʌbld ˈwɔːtərz
Relationships
formal
advanced
- Literally:
- Pouring oil onto rough sea water
What does "pour oil on troubled waters" mean?
- To calm a tense or difficult situation
- To soothe arguments or conflicts
Examples
- She's good at pouring oil on troubled waters.
- I tried to pour oil on troubled waters when they argued.
- His calm words poured oil on troubled waters.
Origin
From ancient knowledge that oil spreads on water and calms waves. Recorded by Bede in the 8th century.
How to use it
Positive expression about peacemaking. Often describes diplomatic skills.
Similar expressions
calm things down
smooth things over
mediate
pacify
Opposites
stir up trouble
fan the flames
escalate
Related idioms
- break the ice
To initiate conversation in an awkward social situation
- see eye to eye
To agree with someone completely
- head over heels
Completely and deeply in love
- pull someone's leg
To tease or joke with someone
- cut someone some slack
To be less strict or demanding with someone
- tie the knot
To get married
Use it in a practice answer
Try "pour oil on troubled waters" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.